What are the Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation?

Let’s start with some background about the different types of Electromagnetic radiation. Electromagnetic radiation energy is produced by various electromagnetic processes. There are two types of electromagnetic radiation, visible light and the invisible ones such as radio waves, infrared light and X-rays.

There are certain types of electromagnetic radiation that can be harmful to us. You may not be fully aware of it but on a daily basis. But we use objects and appliances that give off such energy. This energy may potentially be damaging to us. Examples of hazards of electromagnetic radiation could be cell phones, power lines & transformers. As we invent new wireless technologies we introduce future new electromagnetic radiation hazards.

Microwave radiation

Microwave radiation is used for communication, radar and even cooking. Long-term exposure to this type of radiation can cause:

Cataracts

Blisters on the skin

Sterility and microwave auditory effect, which is hearing buzzing or microwave pulses.

Since mobile phones emit microwave radiation, studies show that it affects part of our brain. As we normally hold it close to our head whenever we use it.

Infrared

Infrared is commonly emitted by heated objects. High levels of infrared emission could cause Glassblower’s cataract. Which can be observed on welders who do not use tinted glasses when working. Common examples of objects that emit infrared are:

Remote controls

Thermal imaging cameras for medical purposes and night vision

Burglar alarms

Electric heaters

Space telescopes and many more

Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet is, of course, connected to sunlight. Overexposure to it can cause sunburn, cataracts, melanoma, wrinkles, freckles, liver spots and damage to the cornea. Other sources of ultraviolet radiation may include the following:

Tanning lamps and beds

Arc welding

Mercury vapour lamps

Industrial processes

Medical and dental practices

X-Rays

X-rays, as we know, are used for medical imaging and skin cancer treatment. Yet, exposure to this kind of radiation can damage or kill our cells. Increase our risk of developing certain types of cancer such as myeloma and thyroid cancer. Cause mutation and genetic damage, and even affect an unborn child.

Gamma rays

Gamma rays come from four possible nuclear reactions: fusion, fission, alpha decay and gamma decay. This type of radiation is commonly used in industries such as mining, food, refining and paper. Gamma rays are also used to scan boxes or objects for security purposes. Since gamma rays can kill organisms, it helps sterilise medical equipment and remove harmful bacteria from food. But, it also goes without saying that gamma rays can damage or worse, kill our cells.

Studies show that gamma rays can help treat cancer, but they can also cause certain types of cancer. Aside from that, it can lead to genetic and tissue damage. Short exposure can cause radiation poisoning. Large doses of gamma rays can cause diarrhoea, headache, hair loss and delayed healing.

Get your product’s compliance tested

It is important that companies that manufacture or import appliances. including equipment, industrial machines and electronic objects for sale or distribution. If applicable radio and human exposure testing through an accredited EMC testing laboratory.

These labs offer certification, compliance and approval services. Qualified and highly-trained engineers test and observe the electromagnetic signatures and magnitudes. To determine if the levels of electromagnetic radiation are to an acceptable limit. This may be a defined local or international standard limit. These sets of tests determine EMC compliance or human exposure compliance. Compliance indicates an acceptable level of performance relative to the required market. Ensuring that the products meet the electromagnetic compatibility requirements.Additionally, products do not adversely interfere with other devices or appliances.

EMC Bayswater provides efficient and cost-effective compliance solutions. To assist your company to achieve your compliance requirements. So you may be confident in selling, importing or exporting various products in your desired markets.

What are the Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation? was last modified: June 8th, 2018 by EMC Bayswater Pty Ltd